For Sale at Auction: 1955 Lancia Aurelia in Las Vegas, Nevada

Chassis No. B24S-1180
Engine No. B24-1242

Introduced at the 1950 Turin Motor Show, the Lancia Aurelia pioneered a suite of innovations, including a rear-mounted transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension, and the world's first series-production V6 engine developed by Francesco de Virgilio. This mechanical sophistication earned the coupe B20 GT variant a reputation as a "giant killer," cementing the model's competition credentials with class victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Targa Florio, and a second-overall finish at the 1951 Mille Miglia.

Unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1955, the B24 Spider represented the zenith of Aurelia performance and design, answering the call for an open-air variant of Lancia's mighty platform. Styled by Pinin Farina, the Spider drew heavy inspiration from the dominant D24 sports racer, featuring a low wraparound windscreen, a hood scoop, and delicate split bumpers that accentuated its sleek, flowing lines. As one of the most elegant and sought-after Italian Spiders of the era, it epitomized the glamour of La Dolce Vita at its most sporting, offering a top speed approaching 115 mph.

Production of the Spider was strictly limited, with only 240 examples built between 1954 and 1955. Of these, just 181 were designated "B24 S"-with the "S" standing for Sinistra-indicating the left-hand-drive configuration. As the rarest and purest iteration of the sporting Aurelia, the B24 Spider remains a benchmark of mid-century Italian engineering and one of the most coveted road-going Lancias ever created.

This outstanding left-hand drive Spider, chassis B24S-1180, holds the distinction of being the penultimate Spider constructed, the next-to-last of the entire 240-unit production run. Its Lancia Classiche Certificate of Origin indicates that this example was completed on 7 November 1955. Furthermore, it boasts a fascinating royal provenance; prior research indicates that the final two B24 Spiders were originally delivered to Lebanon to the household of the King of Jordan, leading to a strong possibility that this very car was used by the King himself. Uniquely, this Spider was delivered with a rare set of driving lights integrated into the body by Pinin Farina, flanking the grille, a special feature seldom seen on surviving examples. Following its time in the Middle East, the Spider was relocated to France while retaining its Lebanese registration before eventually being acquired by an Italian enthusiast.

A comprehensive restoration was subsequently undertaken in Italy, leveraging the country's finest marque specialists. The Red leather interior was appointed by the renowned Enrico Ferraresi of Ferrara, while mechanical refurbishment-including a complete rebuild of the its V6 engine-was executed by Gilberto Clerici of Como. Under the subsequent ownership of California-based enthusiast Tony Schwartz, the B24 S received further mechanical sorting by GPS Classic of Soragna, Italy, including an overhaul of the suspension, brakes, and clutch, alongside valve and carburetor adjustments. It should be noted that its engine is almost certainly the original factory-fitted unit-its numbers correspond in sequence to other known "matching numbers" examples-though its Lancia Certificate of Origin curiously does not indicate an engine number.

The Spider would be acquired by its current owners in 2008, joining a well-known collection of Italian thoroughbreds. Regular maintenance was entrusted to the Italian marque experts at Continental Autosports in Hinsdale, Illinois, with receipts on file attesting to their regular attention. In 2024, chassis 1180 was expertly refinished in its elegant original Grigio (Grey) exterior livery by the renowned McCabe Automotive Restoration of Mundelein, Illinois. Its sporting presentation is further complemented by the presence of the highly desirable "Nardi kit" which included a twin Weber carburetor setup and uprated sport cams, raising output to approximately 160 horsepower. It rides on period-correct, optional Borrani wide-hub chrome knock-off wire wheels, with an additional set of steel wheels accompanying the car. An original and extremely rare B24 Spider instruction booklet can also be found in its extensive file of documentation.

The B24 has become one of the most sought-after postwar Italian cars, and for good reason. Aurelias are wonderful to drive, beautifully balanced with responsive handling and ample power, especially with the Nardi kit fitted. Today, this desirable Spider is offered with the proceeds of the sale benefiting The Footprints Foundation, a 501�3 non-profit. Founded by John and Lisa Weinberger in 2008, The Footprints Foundation and its Driven to Care Legacy Scholarship program supports students pursuing a career in the automotive industry by offering scholarships to select schools with programs in automotive engineering, restoration, technician training, skilled automotive trades and dealership marketing/management. Beyond scholarships, Driven to Care also offers student experiences including behind the scenes tours at racetracks, car auctions, and with industry leaders.

With its "next-to-last" production status, royal provenance, extremely high level of authenticity and with proceeds benefiting a worthy cause, this B24 S Spider presents a unique opportunity to acquire a superbly restored example of Pinin Farina's open masterpiece-equally suited to concours events and exclusive rallies including the Mille Miglia, for which it is notably eligible.